FATHER MATERIAL

The final installment of the London Calling series introduces Luc and Oliver’s biggest obstacle yet: parenthood.

Through Boyfriend Material (2020) and Husband Material (2022), Luc O’Donnell and Oliver Blackwood have weathered many storms, from fake dating to wedding woes. As their friends begin to settle down and have children, Luc and Oliver begin to wonder what a family means and what it might look like for them. Are they ready to extend their relationship to more than just the two of them? With babies on the brain, they get an adorable dog named Spud in an effort to test out their parenting instincts. Differences immediately arise, especially when it comes to disciplining a rowdy, excitable pup. Before they have a chance to work through their divergent parenting styles, the duo find themselves fostering a moody teenager named Jasmine, who essentially becomes a crash course in handling any and all rebellious teen escapades. It’s a large leap in responsibility and feels premature; neither Oliver nor Luc seem particularly prepared to become foster parents. Oliver worries about always being pegged as the disciplinarian when compared to Luc, who has a more lackadaisical approach to fatherhood. Problem after problem is heaped on Luc and Oliver; there’s barely an opportunity to solve one before another surfaces. It’s a tiresome cycle that repeatedly emphasizes the opposites-attract nature of their relationship. While the book serves as a beautiful reminder that a couple’s love story doesn’t end after they commit to one another, only die-hard fans will want to invest the time to see this trilogy to its end. Hall’s trademark cast of colorful characters, slapstick gags, and witty exchanges are still very much present, though they ring a bit stale amid Luc and Oliver’s incessant ups and downs.

A finale to a series that has overstayed its welcome.